How is acceleration defined?

Acceleration is defined as the change in velocity over time. It quantifies how quickly an object is speeding up or slowing down. In more technical terms, acceleration is calculated by taking the difference in velocity (final velocity minus initial velocity) and dividing it by the time interval during which this change occurs. This definition captures both increases and decreases in speed, making it a fundamental aspect of motion in physics.

Understanding acceleration is crucial for analyzing many physical situations, such as the motion of vehicles, falling objects, or any scenario where the speed of an object is not constant. By focusing on the rate of change of velocity, acceleration provides insights into the dynamics of objects under various forces and conditions.